THIEVES targeting high price lead roofing have hit homes, businesses and community buildings across Godalming.

People are now being warned to be on their guard as several thefts of large quantities of the material have taken place during broad daylight.

Surrey Police has said that over the past three months reports of lead thefts have increased ‘significantly’, with public buildings, business premises, village halls and churches being stripped for their roof flashing and other lead based material.

A spokesman for the police said: “A number of the offences have occurred in daylight and often involve the use of large vans or lorries due to the weight and size of the lead taken.

“In one instance, 270ft of lead was reported stolen.

“It is quite possible that any passing members of the public would think that genuine contractors are working on properties rather than actually helping themselves to the lead.”

The most recent report was just after midnight on Tuesday, September 25, at St Mary’s Church in Franklyn Road, where a quantity of lead was taken from the roof and a small light coloured van was reported seen in the area.

Waverley Neighbourhood Inspector, Rob Harris, said: “Due to the escalating value of lead on the world market, it has become attractive to thieves at great cost to the local community.

“These offences are largely focused in Godalming and its surrounding villages. The thieves have mainly targeted roofs, causing damage in the process.

“A lot of those affected are community buildings and facilities, village halls and churches – places that can ill afford the cost of replacing the stolen material or repairing the damage caused.

“We are appealing for anyone who looks after these types of buildings, as well as nearby residents and workers, to remain vigilant and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.

“In some cases, the sheets of metal taken would be too heavy for one person to carry and a suitable vehicle would be required to take the material away.

“If you are concerned by activity that you witness, then please note the descriptions of the people involved, the vehicles they are using, along with any registration numbers, and telephone the police straight away.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information about the theft of lead from buildings in and around Godalming is asked to contact Waverley CID on 0845 125 2222.